Four home runs and a dominant pitching performance helped the Reds snap a four-game home losing streak with a 7-2 win over the Royals.
Royal’s starter Scott Elarton surrendered three home runs in a five-run third inning. Felipe Lopez hit a solo shot. Rich Aurilia and Scott Hatteberg both hit two-run dingers. Elarton (3-9) couldn’t figure out the powerful Reds offense, he gave up six runs on eight hits in six innings.
His counterpart, Aaron Harang, was the total opposite on the mound. He shut down the Royals for his second straight strong performance. Harang shutout Cleveland in his last start and almost did the same to the Royals. He allowed one run in seven innings before giving way to the bullpen. The win for the right hander tied him for the team lead in wins with Bronson Arroyo.
Ken Griffey Jr. hit the 551st homer of his career. He’s in 11th place on the all-time list, just 12 round trippers behind Reggie Jackson.
